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Protecting one’s privacy online has been so imperative over the past years. Id theft is continuously on the rise, and while there’s no complete protection against it, there are ways to repel its devastating outcomes. Cyber crimes, phishing, viruses and malwares are some of the threats that we have to watch out when using the Internet.

There are simple ways to guard our privacy online and here are some of them:

Familiarize yourself with the online environment you are making transactions with.

Know that whenever you connect online or share some information to people you know, it’s always possible that a third party can also connect and intercept all sensitive data you provide. In order to stay safe and have adequate privacy protection, think about the possible consequences of your actions first, especially the information you produce and share to others.

Always know where your information can usually be found.

The includes your emails, social media sites and instant messengers. These online avenues may be used to store videos, photos, important documents, your address and other important data about you. Examine your practices of saving and communicating information to jump-start your privacy protection.

Minimize unwanted threats online

• As soon as you start browsing the Web, your risks for online threats increase. Evaluating the security settings of your browser is crucial for preventing malwares, viruses and pop-ups from invading your privacy. Do not open email attachments that came from anonymous senders, because these might be infected files – only open email attachments from the ones you know and if you’re totally sure that it’s safe.
  
  
• If the Internet browser you are using doesn’t have built-in security software, try to install the latest anti-virus software to safeguard your computer and online information from threats. If possible, try scheduling daily virus check-ups on your device.
  
  
• If you’re trying to transact business online, always search for the website’s privacy policy. Take some time to read it and see how their consumers’ privacy is protected. Always look for signs of a secure web page before proceeding with your online transactions. Secure websites encrypt information to help prevent data breach and hackers from invading the connection. You know that you’re using a secured site if: you receive a screen notice about being redirected to a secure site, there’s a padlock symbol across the URL bar, and the website starts with “https” instead of “http.”
  
  
• To boost your security, try to disconnect your device from the Internet when not in use. Although you’re not browsing but your cable is still connected, viruses and attackers looking for available networks can still target your device.
  
  Identity protection
  
  
• Think about the possible consequences when you share something online. It may be easy for you to express yourself or even share your latest adventures online, but doing these can expose your personal information. Take note that it’s easy for online thieves to glean valuable information from whatever you share.
  
  
• Use different emails for different social media accounts. If you have more than one social networking account, it’s always safe to use different emails for each one. If necessary, do not use your personal email (the one that contains all your important online documents and information), because it can easily be compromised. Doing this will help minimize spam messages and your personal email will not be exposed if the site you’re using doesn’t have good privacy methods.
  
  
• If you’re trying to register for a new account, only fill out details that are needed. Birthdates, birthplaces and other unnecessary questions that aren’t absolutely required may be left blank.

Amy is an active blogger who is fond of sharing interesting finance related articles to encourage people to manage and protect their finances. She also covers topics on privacy protection and tips on credit card fraud protection to avoid identity and credit scams.